In an era where the prospect of retirement is increasingly daunting, the findings of gerontologist Ken Dychtwald in his seminal book What Retirees Want paint a stark picture: the average cost of retirement now exceeds $1,000,000, yet the typical 60-year-old pre-retiree has saved a mere $135,000. This discrepancy signals not just a pending crisis but … Continue reading Navigating the Retirement Crisis: A Revolutionary Approach for Financial Planners to Secure Elder Boomers’ Futures
Author: Steve Conley
Steve Conley is the founder of the Academy of Life Planning, a movement dedicated to restoring human agency in financial planning and helping people navigate life's decisions with greater confidence, capability and independence.
With over 40 years' experience in financial services, Steve has held senior leadership roles with HSBC, Royal Bank of Scotland, Santander and Royal London. A Chartered Financial Planner and Chartered Insurer, he combines deep industry expertise with a passion for challenging systems that leave people unnecessarily dependent on experts.
Steve believes the future of financial planning is not about replacing advisers with artificial intelligence, but using AI to strengthen people's ability to understand, question and make informed decisions for themselves. This philosophy underpins Academy OS, a growing ecosystem of AI-powered tools designed to help individuals, families and planners build capability rather than dependency.
Through the Academy of Life Planning, Steve works with financial planners, organisations and individuals who share a vision of a more transparent, ethical and human-centred approach to planning. His work spans education, research, technology, speaking and professional development, with a focus on creating practical solutions that improve financial capability and restore confidence in decision-making.
Steve is also the creator of the Total Wealth Planner approach, which recognises that a fulfilling life depends on far more than money alone. By integrating financial, personal, social and purpose-driven wellbeing, he helps people pursue what he calls "enough"—a life of balance, resilience and meaning.
As a speaker, mentor and author of *Your Money or Your Life: Unmask the Highway Robbers*, Steve continues to challenge conventional thinking about financial planning, arguing that the profession's greatest opportunity is to move beyond advice alone and become a catalyst for greater human agency.
To learn more or connect with Steve, visit the Academy of Life Planning or email steve@academyoflifeplanning.com.
Live Forever | Connect Eternal
Eternal Life stands as a testament to the potential of technology to touch the most personal aspects of human existence. Through its innovative use of artificial intelligence, it offers not just a service, but a promise: the promise of preserving the essence of who we are for generations to come. As we navigate the complexities … Continue reading Live Forever | Connect Eternal
The FCA’s Controversial Strategy: A Catalyst for Change in the Financial Advisory Landscape
The Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) recent announcement to 'name and shame' firms under investigation has sparked significant debate within the financial services sector. With approximately two-thirds of these investigations concluding without further action, there's a growing concern among regulated advisers about the potential for unwarranted reputational damage. This aggressive enforcement tactic may lead advisers to … Continue reading The FCA’s Controversial Strategy: A Catalyst for Change in the Financial Advisory Landscape
Unpacking SJP’s £426m Ongoing Advice Review: A Call for Transparency and Integrity
St James’s Place (SJP), a renowned wealth management firm, recently made headlines with its decision to set aside £426m for an ongoing advice compensation review. This action highlights the company's commitment to accountability and fairness, underscoring the importance of delivering on promises to clients. Between 2018 and 2023, SJP embarked on a meticulous review of … Continue reading Unpacking SJP’s £426m Ongoing Advice Review: A Call for Transparency and Integrity
The Paramount Importance of Reputation and Credibility in Financial Advice
In a world increasingly driven by the quest for financial stability and clarity, the role of Independent Financial Advisers (IFAs) has never been more critical. However, a recent YouGov survey conducted on behalf of IFA firm Continuum highlights a significant barrier in the path towards financial empowerment for many: the perceived reputation and credibility of … Continue reading The Paramount Importance of Reputation and Credibility in Financial Advice
Financial Advisory Reforms: A Missed Opportunity for Genuine Support
In a recent gathering at a conference organised by software provider Dynamic Planner, Citywire's New Model Adviser reports that Treasury committee chair and Conservative MP for West Worcestershire, Harriett Baldwin, addressed a room full of independent financial advisers (IFAs) on the subject of regulatory reforms proposed by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The reforms, aimed … Continue reading Financial Advisory Reforms: A Missed Opportunity for Genuine Support
The Game Plan: A Framework For Living
Life, in its essence, is a marvel—a complex, awe-inspiring journey that, despite its challenges, offers boundless opportunities for growth, happiness, and fulfilment. Embarking on the quest to live our best lives is no trivial endeavour. Yet, it is within this pursuit that we uncover the rich tapestry of guidance woven through the annals of human … Continue reading The Game Plan: A Framework For Living
New Horizon for Financial Planners: Embracing the Academy of Life Planning
In an era marked by rigorous regulatory demands, the financial advisory landscape is undergoing a profound transformation. Recent insights in FT Adviser today from Louise Jeffreys, managing director of Gunner & Co., underscore the pressure on advisers, with a staggering 66% contemplating retirement primarily due to regulatory burdens. The increasing complexity and resources required to … Continue reading New Horizon for Financial Planners: Embracing the Academy of Life Planning
Unveiling Life’s Purpose: A Christian Perspective
What lessons in the Bible tell us about living life on purpose?: In the quest for meaning and purpose, many turn to various philosophies and teachings, seeking guidance on navigating the complexities of life. However, the Christian faith offers profound insights into the concept of life's purpose, rooted in the timeless wisdom of the Bible. … Continue reading Unveiling Life’s Purpose: A Christian Perspective
A Critical Perspective on Fintech Innovations Targeting the Underserved
The recent announcement of a collaborative effort by fintech companies Rebcat Technology, Moneyhub, and Navos Technologies signifies a bold step towards addressing the pervasive 'advice gap' within the financial services sector. This partnership aims to leverage technological advancements to provide essential financial management, investment, protection, and mortgage services to those traditionally excluded from the financial … Continue reading A Critical Perspective on Fintech Innovations Targeting the Underserved
Academy of Life Planning 